lessons learned in chemistry 101

When I was in junior high I had a science class that made me never to want to take another science class. This became a major obstacle for me as I contemplated getting a bachelor of science degree. In 2008 I was very blessed to have Dr. Anderson for my chemistry teacher at BYU. He began each class with a spiritual thought, used iclickers to test our understanding in class, and had a wonderful TA. I made it through the class and did much better than I anticipated - learning that I really like chemistry and sorry that it took me so long to learn that.

Here are just some of the lessons I learned in Chemistry 101

1. Truths don't always make sense - but that doesn't mean they aren't true.
2. Experiments help you visualize what is happening and you can understand it better - or at least believe that it is true.
3. The more you study the more you learn - so be patient and keep studying!
4. There are things that exist that can't be seen with your natural eyes, but the evidence is there.
5. It is possible for things to change from one state to another but it requires action, the right positioning, or some pressure.
6. Sometimes we need extra help and should find someone else who knows how and wants to help.
7. Sometimes energy is released and sometimes it is absorbed.
8. Conversion factors help us get from where we are to where we want to go which can be applied lots of different ways.
9. There is power within each of us.
10. Sharing makes you stronger (think bonding)
11. All things seek to be balanced.
12. To be noble means that you are very stable, but that is very rare.
13. The one who created all things knows how it all works.